Newham heritage street signs and plaques

You may have seen blue, or green plaques on buildings around the borough. These are to identify places of historical interest, either because someone who made a significant contribution to national life, or to Newham has at some time, lived there.

We provide informational street signs with the history of the street name, and place blue plaques on buildings to commemorate a link with people, or green ones, which highlight places and events of historical value.

Street signs

There are at least 200 streets in the borough named after people that have made a significant impact or contribution to history.

As part of the heritage programme started in 2016, we replace signs in streets and add plaques on buildings that have significant historical links with the borough. The new road signs feature the crest of the London Borough of Newham plus a short inscription about the people or the place behind the names.

“Many of our residents live in streets, unaware that they have a rich history behind their names. Sprucing up our street signs in this way allows our residents take pride not only in their shared heritage but encourages them to look after and play an active part in their community neighbourhood.”

Councillor Ken Clark,
Cabinet member for building communities, public affairs, regeneration and planning

The first batch of new signs replaced included Howards Road, at the junction with Balaam Street in Plaistow. The street is named after pharmacist Luke Howard, 1772-1864, who was a scientist and has been called the father of meteorology. He named the three principal categories of clouds – cumulus, stratus, and cirrus. He formed the pharmaceutical company of Allen and Howard, which had a factory in Plaistow. He also lived in Chesterton House in Balaam Street.

Other signs we have replaced include Croombs Road, Wilkinson Road, Atkinson Road, Hoskins Close and Lawson Close in Custom House, all named after people connected with speedway racing at the West Ham Stadium that stood close by.

Blue plaques

As part of our heritage programme we place blue plaques on places that commemorate a link with people, or green ones, which highlight places and events of historical value.

What do you know about the street where you live?

If you think the place you live has an important historical interest and deserves a plaque, contact us and explain why. Your nomination will be considered by a heritage panel, and if successful, we’ll come and put a plaque on the building so everyone can learn about its importance.

To nominate a place or person, contact your local Community Neighbourhood Team using the details below: